The State Fair Announced the 2012 Theme, Better Put Some Shades On.

The State Fair of Texas is only six months away and has officially announced its theme for 2012: it's going to be Big & Bright. (Notice the new pedestrian-hating Calatrava bridge didn't make the logo's skyline.)

An elaborate 300 foot long and 50 foot high Chinese Lantern Festival will aid in illuminating this year's theme with animated and glowing displays. Other familiar favorites like the Starlight Parade, Illumination Sensation, and Midway Lights will play nicely into the Fair's radiance, which has shone strong now for 126 years.

The State Fair Of Texas opens on September 28 and runs through October 21, so you have plenty of time to train for the fried smorgasbord of delicacies that awaits.